Strap-retraction slowing mechanism and diaper-changing table incorporating same

ABSTRACT

A changing table comprising a strap-retraction slowing mechanism which allows for slower, more controlled security strap retraction so a child on a changing table is not injured by a fast-retracting strap. One embodiment of a security strap-retraction slowing mechanism comprises a mounting bracket, a strap reel assembly, a constant force spring, a first speed reduction gear, a second speed reduction gear, a rotary speed damper, wherein the damper is bi-directional so it damps the rotation in one direction and in the other direction it does not damp the rotation. One embodiment of a retractable security-strap system comprises a strap-retraction slowing mechanism housed in a cavity, a retractable strap, a strap end fitting, and a strap-securing means.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application claims the priority benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent App. Ser. No. 63/251,032, filed Sep. 30, 2021; and U.S. Provisional Patent App. Ser. No. 63/389,889, filed Jul. 17, 2022; each of which are hereby incorporated by reference herein.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The disclosure relates to a strap-retraction slowing mechanism. More specifically, the disclosure relates to a diaper-changing table comprising a strap-retraction slowing mechanism that allows a security strap for securing a child to the changing table to retract back into a cavity slower than it extends out from the cavity.

BACKGROUND

A diaper-changing table is a platform designed to allow a person to change a child's diaper. Changing tables are widely installed at homes, restaurants, stadiums, public transportations, hotels, shopping centers, etc. United States federal laws require changing tables be installed in all publicly accessible restrooms of federal buildings.

A diaper-changing table normally has a raised surface for receiving a child, allowing the caretaker to change the diaper. Current diaper-changing tables have a surface of hard plastic. Such hard plastic is not comfortable and causes unnecessary anxiety to a child, which increases the difficulties in changing the diaper. Embodiments disclosed herein provide soft contact receiving surfaces that do not cause discomfort to children.

Current changing tables provide no hook or loop solution that allow a parent to hang personal accessories, e.g., handbags, when both hands of the parent are busy changing the diaper. This is inconvenient for the parent because the handbags or other personal accessories need to be placed on floors while the floors in public restrooms are not likely to be clean. Embodiments disclosed herein provide multifunctional hook and loop solutions that allow handbags or personal accessories to be hung.

Another issue of current changing tables is that, after repeated use, the child-receiving surfaces of the changing tables unavoidably get dirty. Pathogens can grow on the child-receiving surfaces. Embodiments disclosed herein provide mechanisms for self-cleaning.

Many companies are trying to make seatbelts and other retractable things (tape measures, ID badge clips, etc.) retract faster. There is a desire to make a slower, more controlled strap extension/retraction mechanism so the child on the changing table is not injured by a fast-retracting strap. There is a need for a security strap that is easy and fast to pull out, or extend, from a housing yet slow and deliberate to retract back into the housing. During normal use of the strap by an adult, there is a demand for a strap that retracts slowly to protect a child lying on the changing table from injury by the retracting strap and/or end fitting. There is also a demand for a strap that retracts slowly for the times a curious child extends the strap herself or manages to release an already secured strap.

SUMMARY

The disclosure relates to a diaper-changing table. More specifically, the disclosure relates to a changing table comprising a strap-retraction slowing mechanism which allows for slower, more controlled security strap retraction so a child on a changing table is not injured by a fast-retracting strap. One embodiment of a security strap-retraction slowing mechanism comprises a mounting bracket, a strap reel assembly, a constant force spring, a first speed reduction gear, a second speed reduction gear, a rotary speed damper. In one embodiment, the damper is bi-directional so it damps the rotation in one direction and in the other direction it does not damp the rotation. One embodiment of a retractable security-strap system comprises a strap-retraction slowing mechanism housed in a cavity, a retractable strap, a strap end fitting, and a strap-securing means.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The drawings and detailed description that follow are intended to be merely illustrative and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention as contemplated by the inventors. The detailed description of specific embodiments herein can be best understood when read in conjunction with the following drawings.

FIG. 1 shows a front perspective view of a changing table in a closed position according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 2 shows a front perspective view of a changing table in an open position with a security strap in a retracted position according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 3 shows a front perspective view of a changing table in an open position with a security strap in an extended position according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 4 shows a side view of a changing table with a security strap in a retracted position according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 5 shows a side view of a changing table with a security strap in an extended position according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 6 shows a top view of a changing table with a security strap in a retracted position according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 7 shows a semi-exploded perspective view of a portion of a changing table according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 8 shows a front-left perspective view of a first embodiment of a strap-retraction slowing mechanism according to the disclosure.

FIG. 9 shows a front-right perspective view of the first embodiment of the strap-retraction slowing mechanism.

FIG. 10 shows an exploded front-left perspective view of the first embodiment of the strap-retraction slowing mechanism.

FIG. 11 shows a right side perspective cross-section view of the first embodiment of the strap-retraction slowing mechanism.

FIG. 12A shows a front-right perspective view of a second embodiment of a strap-retraction slowing mechanism without a strap.

FIG. 12B shows a front-right perspective view of the second embodiment of a strap-retraction slowing mechanism with a strap.

FIG. 13A shows a front-right perspective view of a third embodiment of a strap-retraction slowing mechanism without a strap.

FIG. 13B shows a front-right perspective view of the third embodiment of a strap-retraction slowing mechanism with a strap.

FIG. 14A shows a front-right perspective view of a fourth embodiment of a strap-retraction slowing mechanism without a strap.

FIG. 14B shows a front-right perspective view of the fourth embodiment of a strap-retraction slowing mechanism with a strap.

FIG. 15A shows a front-right perspective view of a fifth embodiment of a strap-retraction slowing mechanism without a strap.

FIG. 15B shows a front-right perspective view of the fifth embodiment of a strap-retraction slowing mechanism with a strap.

FIG. 16A shows a front-right perspective view of a sixth embodiment of a strap-retraction slowing mechanism without a strap.

FIG. 16B shows a front-right perspective view of the sixth embodiment of a strap-retraction slowing mechanism with a strap.

FIG. 17A shows a front-right perspective view of a seventh embodiment of a strap-retraction slowing mechanism without a strap.

FIG. 17B shows a front-right perspective view of the seventh embodiment of a strap-retraction slowing mechanism with a strap.

FIG. 18A shows a front-right perspective view of an eighth embodiment of a strap-retraction slowing mechanism without a strap.

FIG. 18B shows a front-right perspective view of the eighth embodiment of a strap-retraction slowing mechanism with a strap.

FIG. 19A shows a front-right perspective view of a ninth embodiment of a strap-retraction slowing mechanism without a strap.

FIG. 19B shows a front-right perspective view of the ninth embodiment of a strap-retraction slowing mechanism with a strap.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Various non-limiting embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described to provide an overall understanding of the principles of the structure, function, and use of the compositions, methods, and processes disclosed herein. One or more examples of these non-limiting embodiments are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Those of ordinary skill in the art will understand that compositions and methods specifically described herein are non-limiting embodiments. The features illustrated or described in connection with one non-limiting embodiment may be combined with the features of other non-limiting embodiments. Such modifications and variations are intended to be included within the scope of the present disclosure.

Reference throughout the specification to “various embodiments,” “some embodiments,” “one embodiment,” “some example embodiments,” “one example embodiment,” or “an embodiment” means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with any embodiment is included in at least one embodiment. Thus, appearances of the phrases “in various embodiments,” “in some embodiments,” “in one embodiment,” “some example embodiments,” “one example embodiment,” or “in an embodiment” in places throughout the specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. Furthermore, the particular features, structures or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments.

In this disclosure, the term “changing table” has the same meaning as “diaper-changing table.”

The child-receiving surfaces of current changing tables grow pathogens after repeated use. Embodiments disclosed herein provide self-cleaning functionality by using UV light to deactivate pathogens. In one embodiment, the changing table includes a timer and/or a processor to control the ON/OFF of the UV light source.

In one embodiment, a changing table includes a wall assembly. The wall assembly includes a housing. The housing includes a transparent panel or transparent windows and a UV light source. The wall assembly includes a reflector for reflecting the UV light. The reflector may be in front of, coplanar with or behind the UV light source. The changing table includes a tray assembly. The tray assembly is pivotally attached to the wall assembly. The tray assembly is connected to the wall assembly through one or more hinges. The tray assembly can turn in relation to the wall assembly. An angle α is formed between the tray assembly and the wall assembly. The tray assembly includes a front panel forming a first surface of the tray assembly, wherein the front panel is flat and solid. In one embodiment, the tray assembly includes a cushion layer forming a second surface of the tray assembly, wherein the second surface is opposite to the first surface, the second surface is a concaved surface configured to receive a child.

Some embodiments disclosed herein provide extra comfort to children. In one embodiment, the surface of the diaper-changing table that receives children is made with a foamed cushion. In another embodiment, the foamed cushion forms a concaved surface for receiving the child. In yet another embodiment, the foamed cushion is removably attached to the tray of the changing table. The foamed cushion is replaceable as needed.

Embodiments disclosed herein provide multifunctional hook and/or loop solutions that allow handbags and personal accessories to be hung. In one embodiment, the changing table includes a loop-shaped front handle. The front handle serves as a handle for a user to pull the tray assembly up or down. The front handle also serves as a mechanism for hanging handbags, backpacks, and/or other accessories. In yet another embodiment, the changing table includes at least one side handle. The side handle is also configured in a loop, providing additional places to hang handbags, backpacks, and/or other accessories.

In some embodiments, a diaper-changing table comprises a slower, more controlled strap extension/retraction mechanism so a child on the changing table is not injured by a fast-retracting strap.

One embodiment of a diaper-changing table comprising a strap-slowing mechanism is shown in FIGS. 1-11 . FIG. 1 shows a diaper-changing table 500 in a closed position and oriented as if it were mounted to a wall. The changing table 500 comprises a tray assembly 520 having an exterior surface 523 and handles 524 to help rotate the tray assembly 520 away from the wall to a position where the tray assembly 520 is parallel to the ground. The changing table 500 comprises a retractable security-strap system. The retractable security-strap system comprises a strap-retraction slowing mechanism (various embodiments shown in FIGS. 8-19 ), a retractable strap 706, a strap end fitting 708, and a strap-securing means 768. In the preferred embodiment, the strap-retraction slowing mechanism is housed in a cavity 514.

As shown in FIG. 2 , the changing table 500 also includes a wall assembly 510. The wall assembly 510 can be statically mounted on a wall. The wall assembly comprises an interior child-protection panel 517, an exterior surface 513, neck portions 515, and a cavity 514. In other embodiments, the wall assembly may not comprise all of these components. The tray assembly 520 comprises tray arms 525 and an interior changing surface 522 configured to receive an animal, e.g. a child. The tray assembly 520 is pivotally attached to the wall assembly 510 via hinges 505, allowing tray assembly 520 to rotate in relation to the wall assembly 510. In other embodiments, the tray assembly 520 is connected to the wall assembly 510 through other hingeable, rotatable, pivotable, and/or turnable means known to a person skilled in the art.

There is an angle α between the tray assembly 520 and the wall assembly 510. As the tray assembly 520 rotates in relation to the wall assembly 520, the angle α can change from 0 to 90 degrees.

When the angle α is at zero degrees, as shown in FIG. 1 , the changing table 500 is in a closed position. The tray assembly 520 is in an upright position covering the wall assembly 510. This minimizes the overall volume of the changing table 500 when it is not in use. The closed position is a position when the changing table 500 is not receiving an animal.

When the angle α is at 90 degrees, as shown in FIG. 2 , the changing table 500 is in an open position. The tray assembly 520 lies flat, with its exterior surface 523 and opposing changing surface 522 generally parallel to the ground. This position enables the changing table 500 to receive a child and be used to change a child's diaper.

The tray assembly 520 may comprise one or more handles 524 on the front and/or sides of the tray assembly 520. A user can use the handles 524 to pull down the tray assembly 520 from a closed position to an open position. A user can use the handles 524 to push up the tray assembly 520 from an open position to a closed position. The handles 524 can serve as a hanger for a user to hang a handbag, a cloth, a towel, or any other personal accessory.

In one embodiment, the tray assembly 520 includes one or more front handles and/or side handles protruding out of the perimeter of the tray assembly 520. In one embodiment, the handles do not extend beyond the perimeter of the tray assembly 520. In yet another embodiment, the handles do protrude out and extend beyond the perimeter of the tray assembly 520.

As shown in FIG. 2 , there are two loop-shape handles 524, one on each side of the tray assembly 520. The side handle 524 is located on a side edge, perpendicular to the front edge, of the tray assembly 520 and protrudes out and extend beyond the perimeter of the tray assembly 520.

FIG. 3 shows a front perspective view of a changing table 500 in an open position (a at 90 degrees). A retractable security strap 706 is in an extended position, securing a child 10 on top of the changing surface 522. The strap may be made of any suitable material such as nylon, mesh, foam, etc. In one embodiment, the strap comprises an antimicrobial coating or fibers. In one embodiment, the strap is nonporous and easy to clean. While in a preferred embodiment the security strap is flat like a car seatbelt, the strap could also be round like a cable.

The retractable security strap 706 has a strap end fitting 708. The strap end fitting 708 interacts with the strap-securing means 768. In the embodiment shown, the strap end fitting 708 comprises a void or open area 710 allowing the end fitting 708 to attach to the strap-securing means, shown here as two pegs 768.

The strap-retraction slowing mechanism is housed in a cavity 514 equipped with a strap slot 770 through which the strap extends and retracts from the strap-retraction slowing mechanism to the strap-securing means 768. In other embodiments, the strap-retraction slowing mechanism may be housed in the tray assembly 520 or at a different location in the wall assembly 510.

FIG. 4 shows a side view of changing table 500 with a security strap 706 in a retracted position. FIG. 5 shows a side view of a changing table 500 with a security strap 706 in an extended position. The tray assembly 520 comprises a changing surface 522, an exterior surface 523, handles 524, tray arms 525, and a strap-securing means 768. The wall assembly 510 comprises a housing 511, an interior surface 512, an exterior surface 513, neck portions 515, and a cavity 514. In a preferred embodiment, the cavity 514 is integral with the wall assembly 510.

FIG. 6 shows a top view of a changing table 500 with a security strap 706 in a retracted position. The changing surface 522 comprises concentric grooves 526.

FIG. 7 shows a semi-exploded perspective view of a portion of a changing table 500. The wall housing 511 comprises a UV light source 530. A reflector 532 is positioned between the wall housing interior surface 512 and a UV light source 530. The UV light source 530 comprises two UV light bulbs 534 mounted to the wall assembly 510 with bulb sockets 536. A transparent-to-UV-light child-protection panel 517 is secured to a front edge 516 of the wall housing 511 along with a gasket 518 and a bezel 519.

In one embodiment, a changing table includes a wall assembly. The wall assembly includes a UV light source. The wall assembly includes a tray assembly. The tray assembly is pivotally attached to the wall assembly. The tray assembly is connected to the wall assembly through one or more hinges. The tray assembly can turn in relation to the wall assembly. An angle α is formed between the tray assembly and the wall assembly. The tray assembly may include a cushion layer forming a concaved surface configured to receive a child. The changing table includes a controller; the controller includes processor and machine readable memories accessible to and executable by the processor. The processor may execute the instructions and perform various actions. The processor executes the following instructions: receiving an indication that the changing table enters a closed position, wherein the closed position is when the angle α is zero; counting a first time period of the changing table remaining in the closed position, and activating the UV light source when the first time period is longer than a first time threshold.

Other embodiments of the diaper-changing table may not comprise a UV light assembly. These other embodiments may or may not comprise a child-protection panel, gasket, or bezel. For instance, one embodiment may have a non-transparent-to-UV-light child-protection panel, such as one that is opaque plastic. Another embodiment may comprise a mirrored panel or a mirrored coating on the interior housing instead of the child-protection panel.

FIG. 8 shows a front-left perspective view of a first embodiment of a strap-retraction slowing mechanism. FIG. 9 shows a front-right perspective view of the same strap-retraction slowing mechanism. The strap-retraction slowing mechanism 700 comprises a mounting bracket 702 which is attached via an attachment means 704 to the interior of the cavity 514. The mounting bracket 702 houses the security strap 706, which has an end fitting 708 having one or more open areas 710. At the distal end of the mounting bracket 702 bottom arm 765 is a stopper plate 766 which surrounds an end-fitting guide slot 764. The security strap 706 end fitting 708 is larger than the end-fitting guide slot 764 such that the end fitting 708 is stopped by the stopper plate 766 from retracting into the strap reel assembly 712. The end fitting 708 may comprise a metal insert, for example, an aluminum insert may be co-molded inside a plastic end fitting 708. An insert can help prevent the buckle from breaking from wear/use. In addition to the stopper plate 766, a secondary mechanism may be used to better center the strap 706 upon retraction.

FIG. 10 shows an exploded front-left perspective view of the strap-retraction slowing mechanism 700. FIG. 11 shows a right side perspective cross-section view of the strap-retraction slowing mechanism. A strap reel assembly 712 comprises a reel 714 around which the security strap 706 is wound. The reel has a left end 716 and a right end 718. The left end 716 of the reel 714 abuts an actuator spring 720 which abuts a locking plate actuator 722. The right end 718 of the reel 714 abuts a shaft retention clip 724 which abuts a bushing 726. The strap reel assembly 712 is located between the mounting bracket 702 left wing 728 and right wing 730 and above the mounting bracket 702 bottom arm 765. The wings 728 and 730 comprise various slots and holes such as holes 732. A keyed shaft 734 utilizes holes 732 to secure the strap reel assembly 712 within the mounting bracket 702. The keyed shaft 734 comprises a left end 736 and a right end 738. A constant force spring 740 engages with the right end 738 of the keyed shaft 734 on the exterior side of the right wing 730 of the mounting bracket 702. A spring housing 742 covers the constant force spring 740. The left wing 728 of the mounting bracket 702 comprises a locking plate slot 744, a hole 732, and a locking plate actuator slot 746. A locking plate 748 fits through the locking plate slot 744 and a locking plate torsion spring 750 abuts the locking plate 748 and the rear interior wall 752 of the mounting bracket 702. Turning now to the exterior side of the left wing 728 of the mounting bracket 702, the left end 736 of the keyed shaft 734 fits through hole 732 and bushing 754 to engage with a first speed reduction gear 756. A second speed reduction gear 758 engages with the first speed reduction gear 756 and with a rotary speed damper 760.

A damper is attached (e.g. via screw or rivet) to a wing of the mounting bracket. The shaft extends beyond the mounting bracket wing and comprises a key on the shaft so it can drive a first gear. That gear drives a second gear connected to the damper. The damper is bi-directional so it damps the rotation in one direction and in the other direction it does not damp the rotation. In a preferred embodiment, the damper is located on the left side and is a counter-clockwise damping motion. So, as the strap is pulled out the damper doesn't dampen anything but as the strap is let go, the damper moves slowly and engages the gear. This new slow-retraction mechanism works independent of thickness of the strap (or cable or the like). So, the mechanism could accommodate different types of straps—e.g., a strap with tactile bumps, padding, etc.

FIGS. 12A & B through FIGS. 19A & B show front-right perspective views of eight additional embodiments of strap-retraction slowing mechanisms. The “A” figures show strap-slowing mechanisms without a strap; the “B” figures show mechanisms with a strap 706. These embodiments incorporate a rotary damper as well. The damper size, strength, and speed can be optimized depending on the size of the strap. The damper could be present on either side of the mounting bracket. Gears may be built into the pulleys/rollers and thus be located inboard of the mounting bracket rather than outboard/on the exterior side of the mounting bracket wing. Instead of o-rings, the pulley may comprise spikes or teeth, have a gear integrated into the end, a damper screwed onto the end, etc. Retraction speed is dependent on the strap/belt thickness and must be tweaked based on the thickness of the strap.

In one embodiment, when the changing table is in a closed position, the front panel faces away from the wall and, when in an open position, the front panel faces downward toward the floor. In one embodiment, the front panel is made with a solid material that provides the necessary support for receiving an animal (animal as used herein includes humans). In one embodiment, the front panel is made with wood or metal.

In one embodiment, the tray assembly includes a tray. The tray includes two exterior surfaces. A first exterior surface of the tray, at least in part, is in contact with the front panel. In one embodiment, the other exterior surface of the tray, at least in part, is in contact with a cushion. In one embodiment, the tray can be made with a material such as plastic, which is relatively softer than the front panel. In yet another embodiment, the tray can be made with a material that is harder than a cushion. In yet another embodiment, the tray provides a buffer zone between the cushion and the front panel. The tray includes a top layer, a bottom layer, and a cavity defined in between. This structure provides the structural support to the cushion, yet maintains a level of elasticity when the cushion receives a child. In one embodiment, the tray is in a bowl shape, having a concaved top surface that is, at least in part, in contact with a bottom surface of the cushion.

In one embodiment, the cushion is the top layer of the tray assembly. The cushion is configured to be in contact with the animal. The cushion is made with foam padding materials to provide a soft and comfortable contact with the animal. The cushion has a top surface which is configured to be in contact with the animal. The top surface has finishes that are non-porous and hydrophobic, allowing easy cleanings. The top surface with non-porous and hydrophobic finishes does not absorb the animal waste or bodily solids, liquids, and gasses as traditional linen.

In one embodiment, the cushion includes a plurality of grooves running circularly and concentrically in parallel on the top surface of the cushion. The grooves secure the animal when lying on the cushion. The higher frictions can better secure the animal when lying on the cushion.

In one embodiment, the cushion can be removably attached to the tray. The attachment mechanism can be hook-and-loop fasteners (e.g., Velcro®), adhesives, snap-on fastener, magnets, or the like. The cushion can be replaced when desired. For example, the cushion may be replaced for wear-and-tear and/or dirtiness reasons. The tray assembly includes tray arm. In one embodiment, the tray arm is made with metal, e.g., steel, aluminum, etc. to support the tray assembly. The tray arm is an elongated protrusion disposed between the cushion and the front panel. The tray arm includes two ends. The first end of the tray arm includes a hinge connected to the wall assembly. The hinge allows the tray assembly to turn in relation to the wall assembly, e.g., changing the angle α. The second end of the tray arm is connected to an end of the front handle. In one embodiment, the tray assembly includes two tray arms. In yet another embodiment, the tray assembly may include one, two, or more tray arms. Similar to the front handle, portions of the one or more side handles are also disposed in the space between the cushion and the front panel.

In one embodiment, the wall assembly includes a wall housing. The wall housing includes a divider that divides the wall housing into a back space and a front space. The back space is proximal to the wall. The front space is distal to the wall compared to the back space.

In one embodiment, the back space includes one or more wall mount bars disposed at a back surface (e.g., the surface in contact with the wall) of the wall housing. The wall mount bar includes attachment mechanisms, e.g., screw holes, allowing the wall assembly to be mounted on the wall. The front space of the wall housing houses a light assembly.

In one embodiment, the light assembly includes a transparent panel and a bezel that seals around the transparent panel. The light assembly further includes two reflector rails. The first reflector rail is disposed proximal to a top side of the transparent panel. The second reflector rail is disposed proximal to a bottom side of the transparent panel. The light assembly includes one or more UV bulbs and bulb sockets that host and power the UV bulbs. The light assembly further includes a reflector. The reflector is a curved panel disposed at a back side (e.g., wall side) of the light assembly. The reflector panel reflects the UV rays toward the transparent panel (e.g., front side of the light assembly). The reflector panel includes apertures to accommodate the bulb socket.

The transparent panel forms a front surface facing the cushion when the changing table is in the closed position. The transparent panel is made with a material, e.g., quartz, fused silica, or other suitable materials that allow UV rays to penetrate through thereof. The transparent panel forms a surface of the wall assembly adjacent to the top surface of the cushion when the changing table is in the closed position.

In one embodiment, when the changing table is in the closed position, the tray assembly covers the entire top portion of the wall assembly. The top portion of the wall assembly includes the light assembly. This means the tray assembly covers enter area of the light assembly. In one embodiment, the cushion has a first perimeter. The top portion of the wall assembly has a second perimeter. The first perimeter of the cushion surrounds the entire second perimeter of the top portion of the wall assembly. The first perimeter of the cushion surrounds a third perimeter of the entire light assembly. The design of the tray assembly coving the wall assembly includes several benefits in comparison to a design of having the tray assembly being tugged-in the wall assembly in a closed position. First, having the perimeter of the tray assembly surrounding the wall assembly maximizes the useable diaper-changing surface for the changing table. This avoids having a bigger surface of wall assembly that takes up a lot of surface and volume that cannot be used as the diaper-changing surface. Second, having the perimeter of the tray assembly surrounding the wall assembly focuses the UV light to the center portion of the tray assembly (where the animal's hip is located), which is the area most actively being contaminated. This avoids wasting the UV light energy shining on the peripheral areas (where the animal's head and feet are located) that are less likely contaminated. This design may allow using a lower energy output UV light to sufficiently perform the sanitation functionality.

In one embodiment, when the changing table is in the closed position, a first concaved surface of the reflector faces a second concaved surface of the cushion. The first concaved surface and the second concaved surface face toward each other. The surface area of the second concaved surface of the cushion is greater than the surface area of the reflector. In a bird view, the surface area of the second concaved surface of the cushion covers the entire surface area of the reflector.

In one embodiment where a changing table is in an open position, the angle α between the tray assembly and the wall assembly is 90 degrees (open position). The tray assembly includes at one bottom surface, a front panel. In one embodiment, when the wall assembly is statically mounted on the wall and the changing table is in open position, the front panel is facing downward. In one embodiment, the front panel is made with solid material that provides the necessary support for the animal. In one embodiment, the front panel is made with wood, hard plastic, or metal.

In one embodiment, the tray assembly further includes the tray. The tray includes two exterior surfaces. A first exterior surface (e.g., a bottom surface) of the tray, at least in part, is in contact with the front panel. The other exterior surface (e.g., a top surface) of the tray, at least in part, is in contact with the cushion. In one embodiment, the tray can be made with a material which is relatively softer than the front panel. In yet another embodiment, the tray can be made with a material which is harder than the cushion. The tray provides a buffer zone between the cushion and the front panel.

In one embodiment, the tray includes a top layer, a bottom layer, and a cavity defined in-between. This structure provides the structural support to the cushion, yet maintains a level of elasticity when the cushion receives the animal. The tray is in a bowl shape, having a concaved top surface that is, at least in part, in contact with a bottom surface of the cushion.

In one embodiment, the changing table further includes a wall assembly. The wall assembly includes a wall housing. The wall housing further includes a top portion and a bottom portion.

In one embodiment, the top portion of the wall housing includes a divider that divides the wall housing into a back space and a front space. The back space is proximal to the wall. The front space is distal to the wall compared to the back space.

In one embodiment, the back space includes one or more wall mount bars disposed at a back surface (e.g., the surface in contact with the wall) of the wall housing. The wall mount bar includes attachment mechanisms, e.g., screw holes, allowing the wall assembly to be mounted on the wall. The front space of the wall housing houses a light assembly.

In one embodiment, the light assembly includes a transparent panel and a bezel that seals around the transparent panel. The transparent panel is substantially a rectangular shape having four sides, a top side, a bottom side, a left side, and a right side. The light assembly further includes two reflector rails. The first reflector rail is disposed proximal to a top side of the transparent panel. The second reflector rail is disposed proximal to a bottom side of the transparent panel. In yet another embodiment, the two reflector rails and can be installed on the right and left sides.

In one embodiment, the light assembly includes one or more UV bulbs and bulb sockets that host and power the UV bulbs. The light assembly further includes a reflector. The reflector is a curved rectangular panel disposed at a back side (e.g., wall side) of the light assembly. The reflector panel reflects the UV rays toward the transparent panel (e.g., front side of the light assembly). The reflector panel includes apertures to accommodate the bulb sockets.

In one embodiment, the bottom portion of the wall housing includes a neck portion and a cavity portion. The neck portion is in connection to the top portion. The cavity portion defines a cavity.

In one embodiment, the cavity portion can house a timer. In one embodiment, the timer controls the power ON/OFF of the UV light bulb. In one embodiment, the UV light bulb is powered ON, i.e., emitting UV light, only when the changing table is in a closed position. This means the UV light bulb is powered ON only when the angle α is at zero degrees. This also means when the angle α is not at zero degrees, the UV light bulb is powered OFF.

In one embodiment, once the changing table is back to the closed position from an open position, the timer is activated. In another embodiment, the timer is not activated until the changing table remains in the closed position for more than a first predetermined period of time, e.g., 1 minute to 5 minutes. The first predetermined period of time is to make sure the changing table is not in use, before the UV light bulb is powered. Once activated, the timer then provides electrical power to the UV light bulb for a second predetermined period of time, e.g., 30 seconds to 10 minutes. The second predetermined period of time is a time for UV ray sanitation. Different time periods can be set to effectively deactivate the pathogens.

In one embodiment, the cavity portion can house a switch. In one embodiment, there is a power switch that is activated and provides electrical power to the UV light bulb only when the angle α is at zero degrees. In one embodiment, the power switch is activated and provides electrical power to the UV light bulb only when the changing table is at the closed position. In one embodiment, when the UV light bulb is on, the tray assembly is locked with the wall assembly and cannot be pulled down. In yet another embodiment, if the tray assembly is pulled down (i.e., angle α is no longer zero), the power to the UV light bulb is immediately cut off. The cavity portion includes one or more openings for receiving the tray arms. The cavity portion further includes a power cord.

In one embodiment, the wall assembly includes a wall housing. The wall housing further includes a top portion and a bottom portion. The top portion of the wall housing includes a divider disposed internally that divides the wall housing into a back space and a front space. The back space is proximal to the wall. The front space is distal to the wall compared to the back space.

In one embodiment, the front space of the wall housing houses a light assembly. The light assembly includes a transparent panel and a bezel that seals around the transparent panel. The transparent panel is substantially a rectangular shape having four sides, a top side, a bottom side, a left side, and a right side.

In one embodiment, the light assembly includes one or more UV bulbs and bulb sockets that host and power the UV bulbs. The light assembly further includes a reflector. The reflector is a curved rectangular panel disposed at a back side (e.g., wall side) of the light assembly. The reflector panel reflects the UV rays toward the transparent panel (e.g., front side of the light assembly). The reflector panel includes apertures to accommodate the bulb sockets.

In one embodiment, the UV light bulbs are disposed on a horizontal center line of the top portion of the wall assembly and/or the transparent panel and/or the reflector. In yet another embodiment, the one or more UV light bulbs are disposed on a vertical center line of the top portion of the wall assembly and/or the transparent panel and/or the reflector.

In one embodiment, the UV light bulbs being disposed at a center line of the transparent panel and/or the reflector allows the UV light to effectively distribute over an actively contaminated area (e.g., hip area of a child) of the top surface of the cushion, not the peripheral area (e.g., head and feet areas of a child). In one embodiment, at least a portion of the UV light directed to the top surface is reflected from the reflector. In one embodiment, at least a portion of the UV light is directed to the top surface.

In one embodiment, the wall assembly includes a wall housing. The wall housing includes a top portion and a bottom portion. The top portion of the wall housing includes a divider that divides the wall housing into a back space and a front space. The back space is proximal to the wall. The front space is distal to the wall compared to the back space.

In one embodiment, the back space includes one or more wall mount bars disposed at a back surface (e.g., the surface in contact with the wall) of the wall housing. The wall mount bar includes attachment mechanisms, e.g., screw holes, allowing the wall assembly to be mounted on the wall. The front space of the wall housing houses a light assembly. A portion of the bulb sockets penetrate through the divider.

In one embodiment, the cavity portion includes one or more openings for receiving the tray arms. The cavity portion further includes a power cord that can be plugged into a wall power. The changing table includes a light assembly with a front surface distal to the wall and a back surface proximal to the wall.

In one embodiment, the light assembly includes a transparent panel and a bezel that seals around the transparent panel. The transparent panel can be at or proximal to the front surface of the light assembly. The transparent panel is substantially rectangular, having a top, a bottom, a left, and a right side. The transparent panel forms a surface of the wall assembly adjacent to the top surface of the cushion when the changing table is in the closed position.

In one embodiment, the light assembly further includes two reflector rails. The first reflector rail is disposed proximal to a top side of the transparent panel. The second reflector rail is disposed proximal to a bottom side of the transparent panel. In another embodiment, the first reflector rail can be proximal to a right side and the second reflector rail to the left side.

In one embodiment, the reflector is installed in the reflector rail. The reflector rail hold two sides of the reflector. The reflector forms a curved surface. The reflector is a curved panel disposed at a back side (e.g., wall side) of the light assembly. The reflector reflects the UV rays toward the transparent panel (e.g., front side of the light assembly).

In one embodiment, one or more UV bulbs are installed in a space between the reflector and the front panel. Bulb sockets house and power the UV bulbs. The reflector includes apertures to accommodate the bulb socket. In another embodiment, the UV bulbs can be a UV emitting solid state light source, e.g., light emitting diode (LED). In one embodiment, the base of the bulb socket extends through the apertures of the reflector.

In one embodiment, the front panel is disposed at a front surface of the light assembly. A first reflector rail is disposed proximal to a top side of the front panel. A second reflector rail is disposed proximal to a bottom side of the front panel. The reflector is installed in the reflector rails, forming a curved surface. The light bulb is installed between the reflector and the front panel.

In one embodiment, the wall assembly includes a reflector in front of the bulbs. Transparent windows made of any suitable material such as quartz, fused silica, polymers, or any other suitable material that allows for the transmission of UV light are provided in front of the bulbs to allow for the UV light to pass through. By placing the reflector and the windows in front of the bulbs, inadvertent contact with the bulbs is prevented. The UV light from the bulbs reflects off the tray assembly to the reflector and is returned to the tray assembly.

In one embodiment, a switch is located within strap housing. The switch is activated when the tray assembly is rotated up and closed. In one embodiment a reed switch and magnet mounted on magnet arm may be used. The reed switch is activated by the magnet that is brought in proximity to the reed switch when the tray assembly is rotated upward. Other types of switches may be used in place of the reed switch.

In one embodiment, a transparent window covers substantially all of the front of the wall assembly, although the transparent window could cover a smaller portion of the wall assembly. Bulbs are located behind transparent window. Bulb sockets are mounted to the wall assembly 10 with mounting hardware. A reflector is behind the bulbs.

In one embodiment, a method for controlling a UV light source in the changing table previously described is as follows. The changing table may include a processor to control the activation and deactivation of the UV light source. The changing table may include a controller. The controller may include processor and machine readable memories accessible to the processor. The machine readable memory may store instructions executable by the processor. The processor may execute the instructions and perform various actions. The method includes receiving an indication, by a processor, that a changing table enters a closed position. In one embodiment, there can be a latching mechanism between the tray assembly and wall assembly. For example, a protrusion is disposed on the tray assembly and a matching latch is on the wall assembly, or vice versa. Only when the protrusion is secured with the matching latch, the method receives the indication that a changing table enters a closed position. In another embodiment, only when the angle α is returned to zero degrees from a non-zero angle, the method receives the indication that a changing table enters a closed position.

The method includes counting, by the processor, a first time period of the changing table remaining in the closed position. The first time period is a period to make sure that the changing table is not in use and is ready to receive UV deactivation of pathogens. The method includes activating, by the processor, a UV light source when the first time period is longer than a first time threshold. After the changing table remains in the closed position long enough, i.e., longer than a first time threshold, the UV light can be activated. In one embodiment, the first time threshold can be from 30 seconds to 10 minutes. The method includes counting, by the processor, a second time period of the UV light source being activated. The method includes deactivating, by the processor, the UV light source if the changing table no longer remains in the closed position, disregarding the counting of the second time period. The action is a safety feature making sure no user is exposed to the UV light. In one embodiment, if a user pulls the assembly tray open (e.g., the changing table is no longer in the closed position), the processor will immediately deactivate the UV light source.

The method further includes deactivating, by the processor, the UV light source if the second time period is longer than a second time threshold. The second time threshold is a time period determined to be effective to deactivate the pathogen with the UV light provided by the changing table. In one embodiment, the second time threshold can be from 30 seconds to 10 minutes.

It will be understood that in some situations, rather than mounting a changing table to a wall, a user may want to mount a changing table on top of a horizontal surface such as a table, dresser, counter, cabinet, window seat, bench, ledge, or other furniture. This may be the case when the table is expected to get quite a bit of use—such as in family/nursing rooms commonly found at zoos, in daycare or preschool settings, in pediatricians' offices, at airports, at stores where babies are commonly spotted (e.g., BUY BUY BABY®, TARGET®, WALMART®)—or other places where space is not a limiting factor or where an adjacent horizontal surface is desired. When mounting the changing table to a horizontal surface rather than to a vertical surface like a wall, one of skill in the art will recognize that certain features of the wall assembly and tray assembly can be swapped. In one embodiment, the tray assembly will need mounting hardware to secure it to the furniture while the wall assembly will benefit from a front panel that will be visible when the changing table is in a closed position.

In another embodiment, a cushion is used on a horizontal surface without a wall assembly or a tray assembly. In this embodiment, the cushion may be mounted to the horizontal surface with mounting hardware, or it may be removably mounted to the horizontal surface without the use of mounting hardware. In some embodiments, a retractable security-strap system is present. In one embodiment, a strap-retraction slowing mechanism is housed in a cavity which is attached to the cushion. In another embodiment, a strap-retraction slowing mechanism is housed in a cavity which is mounted with hardware to the horizontal surface adjacent to the cushion.

In another embodiment, a cushion is used on a horizontal surface with a tray assembly but without a wall assembly. So, the tray assembly is mounted on top of a horizontal surface and the cushion layer is located on top of or within the tray assembly. In this embodiment, the tray assembly may be mounted to the horizontal surface with mounting hardware, or it may be removably mounted to the horizontal surface without the use of mounting hardware. In some embodiments, a retractable security-strap system is present. In one embodiment, a strap-retraction slowing mechanism is housed in a cavity which is attached to the tray assembly. Instead of one or more handles, the tray assembly may comprise a built-in wipes holder or dispenser, a storage bin (to accommodate diapers, wipes, diaper cream, or the like), an entertainment attachment (such as baby mobile), or the like, or combinations thereof.

In yet another embodiment, a cushion is used on a horizontal surface with a wall assembly but without a tray assembly. So, the wall assembly is mounted on a wall and the cushion is located on top of a horizontal surface below the wall assembly. In this embodiment, the cushion may be mounted to the horizontal surface with mounting hardware, or it may be removably mounted to the horizontal surface without the use of mounting hardware. In some embodiments, a retractable security-strap system is present. In one embodiment, a strap-retraction slowing mechanism is housed in a cavity which is attached to the cushion. In another embodiment, a strap-retraction slowing mechanism is housed in a cavity which is mounted with hardware to the horizontal surface adjacent to the cushion. The wall assembly may rotate down and away from the wall to cover the cushion. The wall assembly may comprise a UV light source to provide a self-cleaning functionality to the cushion.

In another embodiment, the wall assembly is like a cover that can be lifted and slid down the backside of a table to expose the cushion while in use and then re-lifted and placed over the cushion as a cover like a lid to provide a self-cleaning functionality to the cushion.

In still another embodiment, a self-cleaning changing table is mobile, or non-stationary.

In a preferred embodiment, the cushion is ergonomically shaped—oval with a raised circumferential edge. The cushion is made of foam—such as polypropylene or polyurethane—or another soft surface. The cushion may be made with an antimicrobial material or comprise an antimicrobial coating. The cushion is preferably water-resistant, leakproof, wipeable, and easy to clean.

While the changing table is mainly described herein as accommodating a child, one of ordinary skill in the art will understand that the cushion and changing table can be used for all ages—from newborns to teenagers to elderly—and the dimensions may be adjusted accordingly. It may be used in long-term care facilities, hospitals, in homes, doctors' offices, rehabilitation centers, handicap accessible restrooms, and the like. The embodiments described herein may also be used in a veterinary setting—for instance, sanitizing an examination table between pets. In fact, the embodiments described herein can be used for any situation where a comfortable and/or sanitized horizontal surface is desired. For instance, the UV light technology described herein could be used in a tray table on an airplane or other mode of transportation, for example, the seatback comprises the wall assembly described herein, and the tray assembly is the tray table passengers use to hold food and beverages.

The strap-retraction mechanism disclosed herein may be used in devices other than diaper-changing tables. For instance, it may be used in other equipment suitable for children, such as high chairs, strollers, booster seats, bouncers, swings, car seats, portable changing tables, playards, and the like. It may be used in other equipment as well, such as wheelchairs, shower chairs, hospital beds, examination tables, or anywhere something needs to be held in place or secured.

The dimensions and values disclosed herein are not to be understood as being strictly limited to the exact numerical values recited. Instead, unless otherwise specified, each such dimension is intended to mean both the recited value and a functionally equivalent range surrounding that value.

It should be understood that every maximum numerical limitation given throughout this specification includes every lower numerical limitation, as if such lower numerical limitations were expressly written herein. Every minimum numerical limitation given throughout this specification will include every higher numerical limitation, as if such higher numerical limitations were expressly written herein. Every numerical range given throughout this specification will include every narrower numerical range that falls within such broader numerical range, as if such narrower numerical ranges were all expressly written herein.

In various embodiments disclosed herein, a single component can be replaced by multiple components and multiple components can be replaced by a single component to perform a given function or functions. Except where such substitution would not be operative, such substitution is within the intended scope of the embodiments.

The foregoing description of embodiments and examples has been presented for purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or limiting to the forms described. Numerous modifications are possible in light of the above teachings. Some of those modifications have been discussed, and others will be understood by those skilled in the art. The embodiments were chosen and described in order to best illustrate principles of various embodiments as are suited to particular uses contemplated. The scope is, of course, not limited to the examples set forth herein, but can be employed in any number of applications and equivalent devices by those of ordinary skill in the art. Rather it is hereby intended the scope of the invention to be defined by the claims appended hereto. As such, the claims below shall be read to include all obvious variations and modifications that may be within the spirit of this invention. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A changing table comprising a retractable security strap.
 2. The changing table according to claim 1, further comprising a strap-retraction slowing mechanism.
 3. The changing table according to claim 2, wherein the strap-retraction slowing mechanism comprises: a mounting bracket; a strap reel assembly; a constant force spring; a first speed reduction gear and a second speed reduction gear; and a rotary speed damper.
 4. The changing table according to claim 3, wherein the damper is bi-directional so it damps rotation in one direction and in the other direction it does not damp rotation.
 5. The changing table according to claim 1, further comprising a cushion.
 6. The changing table according to claim 1, wherein the table is mounted on a wall.
 7. The changing table according to claim 1, wherein the table comprises at least one handle or hook for hanging items.
 8. The changing table according to claim 1, further comprising a UV light source.
 9. The changing table according to claim 1, further comprising: a wall assembly comprising: a wall housing, a transparent-to-UV-light panel, a UV light source positioned between the wall housing and the transparent-to-UV-light panel; and a tray assembly comprising: an exterior first surface; and an interior second surface, wherein the second surface is configured to receive an infant and at least a portion of UV light generated by the UV light source.
 10. The changing table according to claim 9, wherein the second surface is concave.
 11. The changing table according to claim 9, wherein the second surface has a non-porous surface finish.
 12. The changing table according to claim 9, wherein the second surface has a hydrophobic surface finish.
 13. The changing table according to claim 9, wherein the second surface is a cushion layer.
 14. The changing table according to claim 9, wherein the second surface has a plurality of grooves.
 15. The changing table according claim 9, wherein the second surface is made, at least in part, with foam material.
 16. A diaper-changing table comprising: a security strap for securing a child to the changing table; a cavity for storing the security strap when it is in a retracted position; and a strap-retraction slowing mechanism that allows the security strap to retract back into the cavity slower than it extends out from the cavity.
 17. The diaper-changing table according to claim 16, further comprising a UV light source.
 18. The diaper-changing table according to claim 16, further comprising a wall assembly and a tray assembly, wherein the tray assembly comprises a cushion.
 19. A strap-retraction slowing mechanism comprising: a mounting bracket; a strap reel assembly; a constant force spring; a first speed reduction gear and a second speed reduction gear; and a rotary speed damper.
 20. The strap-retraction slowing mechanism according to claim 19, wherein the damper is bi-directional so it damps the rotation in one direction and in the other direction it does not damp the rotation. 